E.P Review: Don’t Fear the Natives- ‘Stupid Heart’

Fresh from supporting Welsh rockers ‘Feeder’, Donegal six piece ‘Don’t Fear the Natives’ have released their debut E.P ‘Stupid Heart’. After initially performing and releasing music as duo ‘Palomino’, singer Claire McDaid and guitarist Denis Kelly wanted to expand their live performance. Eventually progressing into a full band with the addition of extra members ‘Don’t Fear the Natives’ is the next chapter in their musical journey. Along with their enhanced line-up the band officially launched ‘Stupid Heart’ at the Buncrana Music Festival in June and have slowly built momentum with several shows.

Opening their E.P with title track ‘Stupid Heart’ singer Claire McDaid takes the lead with an impassioned vocal. Exploring the anguish of a broken heart throughout the song the lyrics seem to touch on personal experience. As the song progresses McDaid’s vocals are supported by a flurry of soaring guitars adding an angsty feel to the alt-rock track. Taking a change in pace with a softer more delicate guitar ‘This Tide Will Turn’ is a wistful and contemplative song.

‘Just Talk to Me’ is again a gentler track by the Natives with thoughtful lyrics as each song has explored the tenuousness of relationships and the varying emotions you experience through them. Completing the E.P with ‘Another Lonely Day’ the song which was premiered on Electric Mainline with Stephen McCauley is a melancholic and melodic track for the band to end their first full release. Showcasing their range of diverse influences throughout ‘Don’t Fear the Natives’ demonstrate how they can move from a full bodied alt-rock to a more tender relaxed sound. The ‘Stupid Heart’ E.P is a substantial offering for a debut and leaves room for the band to continue to grow for future releases.

‘Stupid Heart’ will be available from all digital stores from the 27th of July